Success on the Rise at TEMPP

With a message that “Success is on the Rise” the Teen Empowered Mentoring Parent Program, Inc, (TEMPP) held its third annual banquet and silent auction on Saturday, February 27th at the Improv Event Center.This annual program serves as an opportunity to recognize program participants for their successes and raise funds. Three TEMPP parents shared their success stories, Analiscia Hinson, A’Dajean Johnson, and Jasmine McBride.

The guest speaker for the evening was Dr. Michele Williams, a member of Deliverance Tabernacle Christian Center. As a single mom, Dr. Williams shared some of her challenges and successes and offered encouragement. “I had a desire to have successful children, positive children. I have two sons close together, toddlers, when I came here. No family. No blood family. But my desire was strong to raise positive children. So I prayed and I began to put a plan together, I had to cut out a lot of stuff, I couldn’t hang out. I couldn’t do different things, even if it were in a productive environment. I couldn’t have come to an event like this because this is a Saturday night and I would need a babysitter. I had to make sacrifices. I had a desire for success.” She continued by sharing her prayers were answered, and her sacrifices then were worth it because today she has those successful children.

According to TEMPP founder and president, Claudia S. Williams, “We have taken it upon ourselves to make a difference in the lives of young families, and we will not wait for government funding or approval. Now, not later, is the time to effect change that is both beneficial and fair, and we will use every resource at our disposal. We will endeavor to ensure our young families are not undervalued, underestimated or marginalized.” Williams also shared they are closer to their goal of starting the Claudia S. Williams Christian Private School for Teen Mothers. First classes will start in August.

If you are 18 or older and interested in becoming part of this program, they are recruiting mentors. The TEMP office is at 1720 W. Fairfield Drive, Suite 506.